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TXL destination photo
CGN destination photo

TXL β†’ CGN

Which side of the plane to sit from Berlin-Tegel Airport (Berlin) to Cologne Bonn Airport (Cologne)?

Our Recommendation
8.5

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the historic palaces of Potsdam, the iconic Brocken peak in the Harz Mountains, and the rolling green hills of the Sauerland region before the descent into the Rhine Valley.

Left Side Highlights
8.5
🏰

Potsdam & Sanssouci

Shortly after takeoff, view the UNESCO World Heritage palaces and the expansive gardens of Sanssouci Park.

⛰️

Harz Mountains

Look for the Brocken, the highest peak in Northern Germany, often shrouded in mist or snow.

🌲

Sauerland Region

Dense forests and deep valleys of the 'Land of a Thousand Mountains' stretching toward the horizon.

πŸ’§

MΓΆhne Reservoir

A massive artificial lake and historic dam visible as the flight traverses North Rhine-Westphalia.

⛰️

Siebengebirge

The dramatic 'Seven Hills' including the Drachenfels appearing as the plane prepares for its final approach.

Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Harz Mountains. During the autumn months, this side provides spectacular views of the changing foliage in the Sauerland. As you approach Cologne, look for the distant silhouette of the Eifel mountains to the southwest.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🌊

Wannsee & Havel

Glittering views of Berlin's largest lake and the winding Havel river immediately after departure.

🏒

Wolfsburg Autostadt

Spot the massive Volkswagen factory and the modern towers of the Autostadt complex near the Mittelland Canal.

πŸ™οΈ

Hannover Cityscape

Clear views of the New Town Hall and the geometric patterns of the Herrenhausen Gardens.

🌳

Teutoburg Forest

The long, narrow ridge of hills that served as a historic site of Roman-Germanic battles.

🏭

Ruhr Metropolitan Area

A sprawling industrial landscape featuring the dense urban centers of Dortmund and Bochum.

The right side is ideal for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Westphalian lowlands. It offers a better vantage point for the industrial geometry of the Ruhr area, which is particularly striking when lit up at night. Keep an eye out for the Mittelland Canal, which acts as a silver ribbon guiding the flight path westward.

Top Activities in Cologne
Route Information

Distance: 463 km (288 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 46 min

Departure: TXL (52.5597, 13.2877)

Arrival: CGN (50.8658981323, 7.1427397728)

Route Type: Domestic

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